Emergency warning sign with readily collapsible frame

ABSTRACT

A readily collapsible display device comprises a collapsible base structure on which a plurality of poles are detachably mounted. The poles are adapted to support a display member such as a sign or the like therebetween. The base structure consists of a pair of side base members to which a pair of end base members are pivotally attached by means of hinges. Each of the pair of end base members is of two-part construction and is hinged at its middle such that the end members are capable of collapsing as the base structure collapses. The poles each comprise an elongated tapered fiber glass reinforced plastic tube characterized by its ability to deflect without incurring damage thereto. Each of the poles has one of its ends inserted into the base structure and its other end connected to the display member whereby the display member is supported such that when the poles deflect in response to having a force applied thereto such as the force capable of being imparted thereto by the wind, etc., the display member will deflect also along with the poles.

Rowland 1 1 Feb. 19, 1974 EMERGENCY WARNING SIGN WITH READILY COLLAPSIBLE FRAME [75] Inventor: William P. Rowland, Southington,

Conn.

[73] Assignee: Rowland Development Corporation, Kensington, Conn.

[22] Filed: Sept. 27, 1972 [21] Appl. No.: 292,826

[52] US. Cl. 116/63 P, 40/125 G, 40/125 N [51] Int. Cl E0lf 9/10 [58] Field of Search... 116/63, 63 P; 40/128, 125 G, 40/138; 273/102 S; 404/10 [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,538,118 1/1951 Miller 273/102 S 2,722,420 11/1955 Adamson 40/125 G 2,911,746 11/1959 Frey 40/128 3,220,129 1l/1965 Goodman et al. 40/128 3,616,557 1l/197l Vara, Sr 40/125 H Primary Examiner-Louis J. Capozi [57] ABSTRACT A readily collapsible display device comprises a col lapsible base structure on which a plurality of poles are detachably mounted. The poles are adapted to support a display member such as a sign or the like therebetween. The base structure consists of a pair of side base members to which a pair of end base members are pivotally attached by means of hinges. Each of the pair of end base members is of two-part construction and is hinged at its middle such that the end members are capable of collapsing as the base structure collapses. The poles each comprise an elongated tapered fiber glass reinforced plastic tube characterized by its ability to deflect without incurring damage thereto. Each of the poles has one of its ends inserted into the base structure and its other end connected to the display member whereby the display member is supported such that when the poles deflect in response to having a force applied thereto such as the force capable of being imparted thereto by the wind, etc., the display member will deflect also along with the poles.

9 Claims, 4 Drawing Figures PAIENIE rm I 91914 SHEET 2 OF 2 EMERGENCY WARNING SIGN WITH READILY COLLAPSIBLE FRAME BACKGROUND or THE INVENTION It has long been known in the prior art to provide a display device consisting of a display member suitably supported on a base structure. In addition, in recent years it has become more and more prevalent to design display devices such that they embody characteristics which render them particularly suitable for use in one type of application or another. Thus, for example, there are display devices which have been designed such as to be especially suitable for utilization indoors, i.e., within a building, etc. On the other hand, there are other display devices which have been designed such as to find particular application as warning signs in a con struction field.

With regard to the latter type of display devices, the majority of applications within the construction field for such devices involves usage out of doors. Obviously, display devices intended for use in this manner must of necessity possess characteristics which differ in at least some respects from those required to be possessed by display devices intended solely for use indoors. For example, a display device designed primarily for utilization out of doors must be constructed of material which is not readily susceptible to the hazards of nature. That is, the device must be constructed such as to be, generally speaking, rustproof and weatherproof in order that the device will be able to withstand exposure to rain, snow, hail, heat, etc. for a relatively long period of time. Also, a display device for use out of doors must be capable of remaining operational, i.e., resist being knocked over, etc. in the face of strong winds. Another hazard which this type of display device oftenencounters particularly when used as a warning sign for road construction is that of being hit by a vehicle. Accordingly, the display device must be capable of resisting serious damage thereto if struck by a vehicle while at the same time being constructed in such a manner that the display device itself will not cause serious damage to a vehicle when struck thereby.

In addition to the characteristics set forth in the preceding paragraph, there are a number of other characteristics which it is desirable that a display device possess irrespective of whether it is being used indoors or out of doors. First, the display device should be relatively inexpensive to manufacture such that use thereof will not be inhibited because of its cost. Secondly, it is desirable that the display devices be sufficiently durable to meet the particular requirements of the environment in which it is intended to be employed while yet still remaining light enough so as to be easily carried by one individual. Thirdly, a desirable characteristic for a display device to possess is the ability to be easily erected by one person. Finally, inasmuch as the number of display devices needed vary from time to time, it is desirable that the display devices be constructed in such a manner as to be capable of being stored in a relatively small space when being transported or when not in use.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a novel and improved display device which is capable of being readily collapsed so as to occupy a relatively small space when stored during periods of non-use or when being transported between different points.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide such a display device which can be easily carried and erected by one individual.

Another object of the present invention is to provide such a display device which is not .readily susceptible to the effects of weather conditions and thus is particularly suitable for usage out of doors.

A further object of the present invention is to provide such a display device which is characterized by its ability to remain operational in the presence of relatively strong winds.

A still further object object of the present invention is to provide such a display device: which is sufficiently durable to normally withstand the effects of being struck by a vehicle but which at the same time will not itself cause serious damage to the striking vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It has now been found that the foregoing and related objects can be readily attained in a display device hav ing a sign or the like supported thereon and which comprises base means, at least a first pair of resiliently deflectable poles mounted on a base means, a display member having a lesser length than the space between the pair of poles, and connecting means connecting the display member to the pair of poles. Base means in cludes a plurality of base members and attaching means which attach a plurality of base members together in such a manner as to form a rectilinearly shaped base structure which is disposed in a first plane. The pair of resiliently deflectable poles are detachably mounted in opposed relation on the base means and extend upwardly therefrom thereby defining a second plane therebetween. The connecting means imparts a biasing force to the display member, which extends in the sec ond plane, thereby to place the display member under tension.

In accordance with the preferred embodyment of the invention, the aforementioned display device includes a collapsable base structure disposed in a first plane. The base structure comprises a first pair of base members, a second pair of base members, a first pair of hinges pivotally attaching one of the first pair of base members to each of the second pair of base members, and a second pair of hinges pivotally attaching the other of the first pair of base members to each of the second pair of base members. The first and second pairs of hinges permit movement of the first pair of base members relative to the second pair of base members to collapse the base structure. The first pair of base members are preferably each of two-part construction and are each hinged at the middle to permit collapse thereof as the base structure collapses. A first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is detachably mounted in opposed relation on the second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof and extend upwardly therefrom thereby defining a second plane therebetween. A diamond shaped display member extends in the second plane and is of lesser length than the spacing between the first pair of poles. First connecting means connect a pair of diagonally opposite corner portions of the display member to the upper portions of the first pair of poles. A biasing force is imparted to the display member by the first connecting means thereby to place the display member under tension. A second pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is detachably mounted in opposed relation on the first pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof. Second connecting means connect a corner portion of the display member other than the aforementioned pair of diagonally opposite corner portions thereof to the upper portions of the second pair of poles. A pair of braces are mounted in supporting relation on the first and second pairs of base members. One of the pair of braces interconnects one of the first pair of base members to one of the second pair of base members. The other of the pair of braces interconnects the other of the first pair of base members to the other of the second pair of base members. Third connecting means are also provided connecting the remaining corner portion of the display member to the midpoints of the second pair of base members. Both the second and third connecting means also impart biasing forces to the display member thereby functioning to additionally place the display member under tension.

Certain objects of the invention may be attained in accordance with another embodiment of the invention wherein there is provided a display device having a sign or the like supported therein and which includes s substantially square base structure, the latter being disposed in a first plane. The base structure includes first and second pairs of base members, all of substantially equal lengths, first attaching means affixing one of the first pair of base members to each of the second pair of base members, and second attaching means affixing the other of the first pair of base members to each of the second pair of base members. A pair of elongated, resiliently defiectable poles is detachably mounted in opposed relation on the second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof and extend upwardly therefrom to define a second plane therebetween. A substantially rectilinear display member oflesser length than the spacing between the pair of poles extend in the second plane. Connecting means connect the display member to the upper portions of the pair of poles snd impart a biasing force to the display member thereby to place the latter under tension. The display member is supported such that when the poles deflect in response to the application of a force thereto the display member will deflect also along with the poles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view ofa display device having a sign or the like supported thereon constructed in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the display device of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the base structure of the display device of FIG. 1 in accordance with the present invention, illustrated in the collapsed condition; and

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the display device having a sign or the like supported thereon constructed in accordance with the present invention.

THE DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT Referring now to FIG. 1 of the drawing, there is illustrated therein a display device, generally designated by reference numeral 10, having a sign or the like supported thereon and constructed in accordance with the present invention. The display device includes a rectilinear base structure 12 consisting of a pair of elongated side base members 14 and 16, and a pair of end base members 18 and 20. End base member 18 is pivotally attached to each of the side base members 14 and 16 by means of a first attaching means comprising a first pair of hinges 22 and 24. As best seen with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3, one end of end base member 18 is hinged to one end of side base member 14 by means of hinge 22 while the other end of end base member 18 is hinged to one end of side base member 16 by means of hinge 24. In similar fashion end base member 20 is pivotally attached to the other ends of side base members 14 and 16 respectively, by means of a second attaching means comprising a second pair of hinges 26 and 28.

Each of the end base members 18 and 20, in accordance with the embodiment of the invention depicted in FIGS. l-3 of the drawings, is of two-part construction and is hinged at its middle. As best understood from a consideration of FIGS. 1 and 3, end base member 18 is composed of two segments 18a and 18b, preferably of equal length, which are pivotally attached together by means of hinge 30. Similarly, end base member 20 is composed of the two segments 20a and 20b, preferably equal in length, and which are hinged together by means of hinge 32 for pivotal movement relative to each other. By virtue of the hinged construction between the ends of side base members 14 and 16 and the ends of end base members 18 and 20, and the two-part hinged construction of each of the end base members 18 and 20, the base structure 12 is capable of pivotal movement between a first substantially rigid, erect condition as depicted in FIG. 1 and a second collapsed condition depicted in FIG 3. In this regard, it will be noted that the hinges 22 and 24 and the hinges 26 and 28 are all located in the inner portion of base structure 12 while the hinges 30 and 32 are located on the outer portion of base structure 12.

With further reference to FIG. 1 of the drawing, display device 10 also includes first and second pairs of resiliently defiectable poles 34 and 36, and 38 and 40, respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the first pair of poles, i.e. poles 34 and 36 are each of substantially equal length. Similarly, the second pair of poles 38 and 40 are each substantially equal in length. However, for reasons which will become apparent subsequently the first pair of poles 34 and 36 are preferably of a lesser length than the second pair of poles 38 and 40. Each of the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 comprises an elongated tapered fiberglass reinforced tubular member. As such the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40, in configuration as well as construction, resemble conventional fishing poles. The poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 are readily defiectable in response to an external force being applied thereto and are characterized by their ability to deflect and return to their original positions upon removal of the external force without under normal conditions sustaining any damage thereto.

The first pair of poles 34 and 36 are detachably mounted substantially at the midpoints of the side base members 14 and 16, respectively, and thereby define a plane therebetween which substantially extends at right angles to the plane of base structure 12. More specifically, pole 34 is inserted into and frictionally retained within an opening 42 provided for this purpose in a block 44 affixed to the approximate center of side base member 14 through the use of any suitable fastening means (not shown) such as nails, screws, etc. The other of the first pair of poles, i.e., pole 36 is detachably mounted by means of a frictional fit in opposed relation to pole 34 in the opening 46 provided for this purpose in block 48 the latter being suitably affixed to the approximate center of said base member 16 through the use of any conventional fastening means (not shown).

A second pair of poles 38 and 40 are detachably mounted in substantially opposed relation slightly adjacent to the hinged middle of the end base members 18 and 20, respectively, and such as to define a plane therebetween which is substantially perpendicular to the plane of base structure 12 and to the plane defined by poles 34 and 36. As can be seen in FIG. 3 of the drawings, an opening 50 is provided in segment 18b of end base member 18. The opening 50 is suitably dimensioned such as to be capable of receiving one end of pole 38, the latter being suitably supported therein by means of a friction fit. A like opening 52 similarly dimensioned is provided in the other end base member, i.e., 20 for receiving with a frictional fit one end of pole 40.

To improve the rigidity of the base structure 12 when the latter is in its erected condition as shown in FIG. 1 of the drawings, display device 10, in accordance with the preferred form of the invention, also includes a pair of braces 54 and 56. Brace 54 functions to interconnect the approximate center of end base member 18 with substantially the middle of side base member 14, and brace 56 interconnects the approximate center of end base member 20 with substantially the middle of side base member 16. As shown in FIG. 1, the braces 54 and 56 are each provided at opposite ends thereof with suitable openings 58 and 62, and 60 and 64, respectively, which are dimensioned such that the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40, respectively, are insertable therethrough into the aforedescribed openings 42, 46, 50 and 52 pro vided therefor in the side base members 14 and 16, and end base members 118 and 20, respectively.

Referring further to the embodiment of the invention depicted in FIGS. 1 3 of the drawings, the display device additionally includes 5 substantially diamond shaped display member 66, which as shown in FIG. I extends between the poles 34 and 36 in the plane defined therebetween and is of lesser length than the spacing therebetween. Each corner, i.e., comers 66a, 66b, 66c and 66d of display member 66 is suitably provided with a grommet 67, 68, 69 and 70, respectively. The latter are utilized for purposes of fastening the display member 66 in supporting relation between the poles 34 and 36. In this connection, a plurality of S- shaped fasteners 71, 72, 73 and 74 are provided each having one end thereon retained in a corresponding one of the grommets 67-70. The other end of each of the fasteners 71 and 73 is connected by a nonelastic cordlike member 75 and 76, respectively, to the tips of poles 34 and 36, respectively, whereby to fasten the diagonally opposite corners 66a 66c of display member 66 to the poles 34 and 36. In accord with the preferred embodiment of the invention, the lengths of cordlike members 75 and 76 are selected to be such that the tips of poles 34 and 36 must be biased at least slightly inwardly in order to enable the fasteners 71 and 73 to be inserted into the grommets 67 and 69. Thus, a biasing force is imparted to the corners 66a and 66c of display member 66 which thereby functions to place the display member 66 under tension.

Another nonelastic cordlike member 77 is fastened at its opposite ends to the tips of poles 38 and 40. Here also, the length of cordlike member 77 is preferably chosen to be such that the tips of the poles 38 and 46 are caused to bend slightly inwardly. One end of S- shaped fastener 72 is hooked onto the cordlilte member 77 whereby to connect corner 66b of display member 66 thereto and such that as will be described in more detail hereinafter the fastener 72! and thereby corner 66b of display member 66 are capable of sliding movement relative to cordlike member 77.

The remaining corner 66d of display member 66 is attached to cordlike member 78 by means of S'shaped fastener 74 which is hooked thereon. One end of cord like member 78 is attached by means of an S-shaped fastener (not shown) to an eye ring (not shown), the latter being substantially retained in side base member 14 adjacent the point therealong whereat block 44 is attached. The other end of cordlike member 76 is at tached by means of S-shaped member 79 to one end of an elastic member 80 the other end of which is attached by means of an S-shaped fastener 81 to eye ring 62. The latter ring 82 is suitably retained on side base member 16, such as by being screwed therein, at the approximate midpoint thereof. By virture of the inherent resiliency of elastic member 30 a biasing force is imparted directly to the corner 66d and indirectly to corner 66b thereby serving to further place the display member 66 under tension.

There are a variety of different Ways in which the display device Ill) is capable of being employed. As such for purposes of providing an explanation of the in tended method of employment of display device 10, one use to which the latter may be put and one which is believed to typify many of the other possible uses thereof has been selected for description. Proceeding now therefore with the latter description, assume that there is a need for calling attention to the existence of a possibly hazardous situation at a location such as for instance the site of some form of road construction, etc. In such a situation, the display device is capable of being utilized, when disposed in its substantially rigid, erect condition as depicted in FIG. I, as a form of warning sign to call attention to the potential hazard. When employed for such a purpose, the display device 10 is preferably positioned adjacent the hazard and in such a location that it is clearly visible to anyone approaching the vicinity. The specific nature of the warning to be provided by the display device 110 will, of course, vary from one situation to another. Accordingly, display members bearing words other than the word SLOW, which has been shown depicted on display member 66 in FIG. 1 merely by way of example, may be substituted for the latter where appropriate. In this connection, in certain situations the mere color and/or shape of the display member being supported on the display device Ill) may be sufficient to convey the desired warning without any need for providing the display member with any actual work of warning.

For purposes of the type of use described in the preceding paragraph, it has been found that a display device 110 having a base structure 12 constructed of Wood will perform satisfactorily. As an example, one such form of display device 10 which has been actually built and tested embodied a base structure 12 constructed from wooden 2 X 4s which had been cut to suitable lengths such as to provide a display device 10 which when erected as shown in FIG. I was sufficiently large as to be readily seen by one approaching the front or rear thereof either on foot or in a vehicle. The braces 54 and 56 and the blocks 44 and 48 were also of similar wooden construction. Such a wooden base structure 12 it has been found is sufficiently heavy that it will normally remain erect in the face of winds of up to 45 miles per hour, and yet is still light enough, i.e., it weighs no more than 35 pounds, that it is capable of being carried by one person.

When it is contemplated that the display device will be utilized in applications out of doors such as the type described hereinabove, all of the various items of hardware to be found employed in the display device 10 such as the hinges 22, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32, the grommets 67-70, the S-shaped fasteners 7174, etc. are preferably formed from metal which has been provided with a suitable protective coating or covering in order to minimize their susceptibility to the effects of the elements of nature, or else they may be formed of a nonmetallic material which is essentially rustproof and weather proof. Insofar as concerns the cordlike members 75, 76, 77 and 78, the latter can be provided from any suitable material which is not relatively susceptible to deterioration from exposure to the elements of nature such as rain, heat, snow, hail, etc. and which is strong enough to be capable of applying the desired biasing forces to the corners of the display member 66 whereby to cause the latter to be placed under tension. Elastic member 80 may be formed of any suitably resilient material which inherently is capable of withstanding the effects of the weather when exposed thereto for relatively prolonged periods.

As was previously set forth, the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 each consist of an elongated, tapered fiberglass reinforced plastic tubular member which resembles in configuration as well as construction a conventional fishing pole. The term tubular member as employed herein is intended to encompass poles which have a hollow tubular construction as well as those which are of solid construction. In the case of either construction, the essential characteristic thereof is that the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 possess the capability of withstanding significant deflection in response to the application thereto of a force such as that capable of being imparted by winds of up to 45 miles per hour without the poles incurring any damage thereto.

By virtue of the inherent resiliency of the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40, the latter will deflect in the face of a strong wind and will cause the display member 66 which is supported therebetween to move along therewith. That is, assuming that a strong wind is blowing from left to right as viewed with reference to FIG. 1, the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 will deflect from their solid line positions in FIG. 1 to the dotted line positions thereof also shown in FIG. 1 This deflection of the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 in turn causes the display member 66 to move from the solid line positions thereof depicted in FIG. 1 to the dotted line positions thereof also shown in the same Figure. Further, upon termination of the wind force, the poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 as well as display member 66 will return to their solid line positions undamaged.

Thus, it can be seen that the display device 10 provides a structure which inherently has the ability to withstand strong wind forces without being damaged thereby. In this connection, it is also contemplated that the display member 66 rather than being formed from solid clothlike material may, if so desired, be formed from netlike material, i.e., material having a plurality of spaced openings therein. The latter openings are intended to function as a means of reducing the drag on the display member 66 caused by the wind by permitting some of the wind flow to pass through the display member 66, i.e., through the aforedescribed openings. As described hereinabove. the materials utilized in the construction of particularly the upwardly extending portions of the display device 10 are such that in the event that the device 10 is struck by a passing vehicle, minimal damage, if any, will be sustained by the vehicle while on the other hand, the same poles of the display device 10 are themselves capable of withstanding a significant impact without being damaged. However, should they be severely damaged, they are easily replaced at very little expense.

Referring now to FIG. 4 of the drawings, there is illustrated therein another embodiment of the display device, generally designated by reference numeral 84, having a sign or the like supported thereon and constructed in accordance with the present invention. Display device 84 comprises a base structure 86 consisting of four base members 88, 90, 92 and 94 all of substantially equal length, a pair of resiliently deflectable poles 96 and 98 mounted in opposed relation on base members 88 and 92, a rectangularly shaped display member 100 and connecting means connecting the corner portions 100a and 10Gb of display member 100 to the tips of poles 96 and 98 and the other two corner portions, i.e., 100C and 100d of display member 100 to the approximate center of the base members 88 and 92. Preferably the base structure 86 as shown in FIG. 4 is of wooden construction, being constructed from 2 X 4s cut to suitable lengths in essentially the same manner as that described previously in connection with the description of display device 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the ends of base member 90 are affixed by suitable means (not shown) such as nails, screws, etc. to one end of each of the base members 88 and 92. In similar fashion, the ends of base member 94 are affixed by conventional fastening means (not shown) to the other end of each of the base members 88 and 92. Accordingly, there is provided a base structure 86 which lies in a first plane and which has a substantially square configuration. Although the base structure 86 as above described and as illustrated in FIG. 4 is not readily capable of being collapsed as is the base structure 12 of display device 10, it is to be under stood that if it were desired to make the base structure 86 collapsable such could be accomplished by utilizing a plurality of hinges to interconnect the ends of the base members 88, 90, 92 and 94 in the manner practiced in the case of base structure 12 of display device 10. Each of the base members 88 and 92 is provided substantially at the midpoint thereof with an opening 102 and 104, respectively, dimensioned such as to be capable of receiving one end of a corresponding one of the poles 96 and 98 with a frictional fit.

The poles 96 and 98 are of the same general construction as the previously described poles 34, 36, 38 and 40 of display device 10. That is, the poles 96 and 98 each comprise an elongated tapered fiber glass reinforced plastic tubular member wherein the term tubular member is intended to encompass members having a hollow as well as a solid construction. The poles 96 and 98 which resemble both in configuration and con struction conventional fishing poles, like the latter are characterized by their ability to deflect significantly in response to the application thereto ofan external force and upon removal of the force to return to their original position without having incurred any damage thereto.

Display member 100 is of lesser length than the spac ing between poles 96 and 98 and is supported therebetween such as to extend in the plane defined thereby. Like display member 66, each of the corner portions 100a, 100b, 1000 and 100d of display member 100 is provided witha grommet 106, 108, 110 and 112. The corner portions 100a and 100b of display member 100 are connected by means of a first connecting means comprising S-shaped fasteners 114 and 116 and cordlike members 118 and 120 to the tips of poles 96 and 98, respectively. The other corner portions 1000 and 100d of display member 100 are fastened by means of S-shaped fasteners 122, 124, 126 and 128, and elastic members 130 and 132 to the eye rings 134 and 136. More specifically, one end of elastic member 130 is attached by means of S-shaped fastener 122 to comer portion 1000 of display member 100 while the other end of elastic member 130 is attached by S-shaped fastener 126 to the eye ring 134. In similar fashion, 8- shaped fastener 124 attaches one end of elastic member 132 to corner portion 100d of display member 100 while the other end of elastic member 132 is attached by means of S-shaped fastener 128 to eye ring 136. As such, the elastic members 130 and 132 function to impart a biasing force to the corner portions 100C and 100d of display member 100 thereby placing the dis play member 100 under tension. The eye rings 134 and 136 are suitably retained in the base members 88 and 92 in any suitable fashion such as for instance by being screwed therein.

In accord with the preferred form of the embodiment of display device 84 illustrated in FIG. 4, the display member 100 is preferably provided with a pair of stiffening rods 138 and 140. The latter rods 138 and 140 are preferably constructed of the same material as the poles 96 and 98. To retain the rods 138 and 140 in en gagement with the display member 100, the latter is provided with two pairs of pockets (not shown). One pair of pockets is provided adjacent the corner portions 100a 1001; on the rear of display member 100 while the other pair is provided adjacent the corner portions 100C and 100d also on the rear of display member 100. Each pair of pockets functions to receive the corresponding opposite ends of one of the rods 138 and 140. The spacing between the individual pockets of each pair thereof is such that it is necessary for purposes of inserting the rod ends into the pockets that the rod ends be bent slightly. This ensures that the rod ends after insertion into the pockets will be securely captured therein.

Regarding the material from which the cordlike members 118 and 120 and the elastic members 130 and 132 are formed, the same type of material utilized for the cordlike members and elastic member of display member described previously is preferably employed. Similarly, if the display device 84 is intended to be employed out of doors, the S-shaped fasteners and the eye rings thereof are of the type designed for out of doors usage.

The preferred method of employing display device 84 is essentially the same as that described previously for display device 10. Assuming the display device 84 is employed out of doors, in the face of a strong wind blowing from left to right as viewed with reference to FIG. 4, the poles 96 and 98 and a display member 1100 will move from the solid line positions thereof shown in FIG. 4 to the dotted line positions thereof also illustrated in the same figure. Because display member is supported on display device 84 in somewhat different fashion than the manner in which display member 66 is supported on display device 10, the display member 100 will tend to have a sideways movement when the poles 96 and 98 deflect whereas the display member 66 generally moves back and forth relative to the length of cordlike member 77 under the same conditions. In either case though, the ability of the poles and the display members to move without incurring damage thereto enables the display device to withstand the application thereto of an external force and also makes it possible for them to remain operational for their intended purposes such as as a warning sign, etc.

Although only two embodiments of display device constructed in accordance with the present invention have been described hereinabove and illustrated in the drawings, it is to be understood that many modifications may be made therein without departing from the essence of the invention. Thus, for example, a variety of differently configured base structures may be substituted for the base structures 12 and 86 shown in the drawings. In this connection, it is contemplated that a base structure configured in the form of a cross could be employed as a mounting means for mounting the poles which support the display member. Such a base structure would include a pair of base members having center portions which intersect, and having means provided at the outward ends thereof for mounting the poles therein. Also it is contemplated that the base structure may consist of a plurality of integral foot pads, each capable of having one of the poles mounted thereon and being of sufficient weight to resist being blown over in the face of a heavy wind. Cross members may be utilized to interconnect the foot pads, if so desired, to improve the rigidity of the base structure. Finally, with regard to display device 84, as was previously mentioned the latter may be made collapsable through the use of hinges to interconnect the base members, if such were desired. Although not shown, a brace similar to the braces 54 and 56 empolyed in display device 10 may be utilized with display device 84 to inteconnect substantially the midpoints of base members 88 and 92. The above is intended to set forth only some of the possible modifications which can be made in the display device, others having been alluded to earlier hereinabove.

Thus, it can be seen that the present invention provides a novel and improved display device having a sign or the like supported thereon which is capable of being readily collapsed so as to occupy a relatively small space when stored during periods of nonuse or when being transported between different points of use. The subject display device is also characterized by its ability to be easily carried and erected by one individual. In accord with the present invention a display device has been provided which is not readily susceptible to the effects of weather conditions, and thus is particularly suitable for usage out of doors. The display device of the present invention is also characterized by its ability to remain operational in the presence of a relatively strong wind. Finally, in accordance with the present invention, there has been provided a display device which is sufficiently durable to normally withstand the effects of being struck by a passing vehicle but which at the same time will not itself cause serious damage to the striking vehicle.

Having thus described the invention, 1 claim:

1. A display device having a sign or the like supported thereon comprising base means disposed in a first plane; at least a first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles mounted in opposed relation on said base means, said pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles extending upwardly from said base means to define a second plane therebetween; a display member extending in said second plane and of lesser length than the spacing between said pair of elongated resiliently deflectable poles; and first connecting means connecting said display member to said pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles, said first connecting means imparting a biasing force to said display member to place said display member under tension.

2. A display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said base member comprises a rectilinear base; said rectilinear base including a first pair of base members, a second pair of base members, first attaching means attaching one of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members; and second attaching means attaching the other of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members.

3. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said base is substantially square; said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is mounted on said second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; said display member is substantially rectangular; and said first connecting means connects the corner portions of one of the long sides of said display member to the upper portions of said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.

4. A display device as set forth in claim 3 further comprising second connecting means connecting the corner portions of the other of the long sides of said display member to substantially the midpoints of said second pair of base members.

5. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said base is substantially rectangular; said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is mounted on said second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; said display member is diamond shaped; and said first connecting means connects a pair of diagonally opposite comer portions of said display member to the upper portions of said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.

6. A display device as set forth in claim 5 further comprising a second pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles mounted on said first pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; and second connecting means connecting a corner portion of said display member other than said pair of diagonally opposite comer portions thereof to the upper portions of said second pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.

7. A display device as set forth in claim 6 further comprising a pair of braces mounted in supporting relation on said first and second pairs of base members, one of said pair of said braces interconnecting one of said first pair of base members to one of said second pair of base members, and the other of said pair of braces interconnecting the other of said first pair of base members to the other of said second pair of base members; and third connecting means connecting the remaining corner portion of said display member to the midpoints of said second pair of base members.

8. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first attaching means comprises a first pair of hinges pivotally attaching said one of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base mem bers; said second attaching means comprises a second pair of hinges pivotally attaching said other of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members; and said first and second pairs of hinges permitting movement of said first pair of base members relative to said second pair of base members to collapse said base.

9. A display device as set forth in claim 8 wherein said first pair of base members are each of two-part construction and are each hinged at the middle to permit collapse thereof as said base collapses. 

1. A display device having a sign or the like supported thereon comprising base means disposed in a first plane; at least a first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles mounted in opposed relation on said base means, said pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles extending upwardly from said base means to define a second plane therebetween; a display member extending in said second plane and of lesser length than the spacing between said pair of elongated resiliently deflectable poles; and first connecting means connecting said display member to said pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles, said first connecting means imparting a biasing force to said display member to place said display member under tension.
 2. A display device as set forth in claim 1 wherein said base member comprises a rectilinear base; said rectilinear base including a first pair of base members, a second pair of base members, first attaching means attaching one of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members; and second attaching means attaching the other of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members.
 3. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said base is substantially square; said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is mounted on said second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; said display member is substantially rectangular; and said first connecting means connects the corner portions of one of the long sides of said display member to the upper portions of said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.
 4. A display device as set forth in claim 3 further comprising second connecting means connecting the corner portions of the other of the long sides of said display member to substantially the midpoints of said second pair of base members.
 5. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said base is substantially rectangular; said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles is mounted on said second pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; said display member is diamond shaped; and said first connecting means connects a pair of diagonally opposite corner portions of said display member to the upper portions of said first pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.
 6. A display device as set forth in claim 5 further comprising a second pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles mounted on said first pair of base members substantially at the midpoint thereof; and second connecting means connecting a corner portion of said display member other than said pair of diagonally opposite corner portions thereof to the upper portions of said second pair of elongated, resiliently deflectable poles.
 7. A display device as set forth in claim 6 further comprising a pair of braces mounted in supporting relation on said first and second pairs of bAse members, one of said pair of said braces interconnecting one of said first pair of base members to one of said second pair of base members, and the other of said pair of braces interconnecting the other of said first pair of base members to the other of said second pair of base members; and third connecting means connecting the remaining corner portion of said display member to the midpoints of said second pair of base members.
 8. A display device as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first attaching means comprises a first pair of hinges pivotally attaching said one of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members; said second attaching means comprises a second pair of hinges pivotally attaching said other of said first pair of base members to each of said second pair of base members; and said first and second pairs of hinges permitting movement of said first pair of base members relative to said second pair of base members to collapse said base.
 9. A display device as set forth in claim 8 wherein said first pair of base members are each of two-part construction and are each hinged at the middle to permit collapse thereof as said base collapses. 